AFHE.ORG 2019 AFHE Convention Workshop Descriptions – Updated June 15, 2019 Page 1 Friday, July 19, 2019 8:45 – 10:15 AM Keynote From Diapers to Diplomas: Five Reasons Why Homeschooling Works Woody Robertson Ballroom Looking for a shot in the arm that you’re on the right track and that your sacrifice is worth it? Woody Robertson will open our convention with this encouragement for you, blending humorous personal stories from his days as a homeschool student twenty years ago with the proven benefits homeschoolers experience today. Together we will focus on the fundamentals that are important to your homeschool thinking, with a reminder of what true success is really about. 10:30 – 11:30 AM Becoming MomStrong Heidi St. John Ballroom Today’s mothers live in challenging times, facing things that our mothers could never have imagined. From Internet predators to the discovery of GMO’s, BPA’s, and STD’s, our lives are vastly different than the generation before us. Many moms struggle with fear of the future—but God says, "Do not be afraid! Be strong and courageous!" Moms, you have a mission: to raise the next generation of teachers, doctors, judges, police officers, grocery store clerks, attorneys, nurses—and parents. Heidi will challenge you to "Become MomStrong" drawing on truths from God's Word to equip you to answer the tough questions and meet the challenges head‐on. Creative Nature Study IS Real Science Cindy West Room 151‐152 Ticketed Hands‐On Workshop: Advance Registration Required ‐ $10 Supply Fee There is no “right” way to incorporate nature study into your homeschool, but it can be considered as real science lessons when taken seriously. This workshop will give you a wealth of practical suggestions for adding nature study in a way that suits your family’s homeschool. Understand the importance of studying God’s creation, feel confident (even if you’re a novice), learn how to keep nature journals and learn what to do during nature study no matter where you live. Participants will practice nature study with Cindy’s guidance and take home the tools and instruction they need to get started!
From Diapers to Diplomas: Five Reasons Why Homeschooling Works Woody Robertson Ballroom
Looking for a shot in the arm that you’re on the right track and that your sacrifice is worth it? Woody Robertson will open our convention with this encouragement for you, blending humorous personal stories from his days as a homeschool student twenty years ago with the proven benefits homeschoolers experience today. Together we will focus on the fundamentals that are important to your homeschool thinking, with a reminder of what true success is really about.
10:30 – 11:30 AM
Becoming MomStrong Heidi St. John Ballroom
Today’s mothers live in challenging times, facing things that our mothers could never have imagined. From Internet predators to the discovery of GMO’s, BPA’s, and STD’s, our lives are vastly different than the generation before us. Many moms struggle with fear of the future—but God says, "Do not be afraid! Be strong and courageous!" Moms, you have a mission: to raise the next generation of teachers, doctors, judges, police officers, grocery store clerks, attorneys, nurses—and parents. Heidi will challenge you to "Become MomStrong" drawing on truths from God's Word to equip you to answer the tough questions and meet the challenges head‐on.
Creative Nature Study IS Real Science Cindy West Room 151‐152
There is no “right” way to incorporate nature study into your homeschool, but it can be considered as real science lessons when taken seriously. This workshop will give you a wealth of practical suggestions for adding nature study in a way that suits your family’s homeschool. Understand the importance of studying God’s creation, feel confident (even if you’re a novice), learn how to keep nature journals and learn what to do during nature study no matter where you live. Participants will practice nature study with Cindy’s guidance and take home the tools and instruction they need to get started!
The Essentials of Special Education Homeschooling Peggy Ployhar Room 153‐154
Special Learners Track
Homeschooling is the ultimate individualized education plan, so it’s not a wonder why parents of special needs children consider this educational choice. In this talk, Peggy Ployhar, CEO of SPED Homeschool, covers what it takes to get started homeschooling, avoiding and conquering common pitfalls, and how to homeschool special education through high school. This talk is filled with practical advice from the trenches of homeschooling for 17 years and working for over a decade as a special needs homeschooling consultant.
Scheduling is the Key to Sanity Lee Binz Room 155‐156
Scheduling your day and planning your school year is a worthwhile investment in sanity! A flexible plan allows you to actually get your priorities done and focus on the important rather than just the urgent. In this session you will learn strategies for identifying your priorities and creating a plan to develop well‐adjusted and well‐educated children living in family harmony. Middle school and high school issues are the focus, but you will learn how to manage with younger children, too. Lee will talk you through how to create a daily schedule and assignment sheets to help keep your kids on task.
Middle School Madness Hal & Melanie Young Room 157‐159
When our oldest was eight, we thought we were pretty great homeschool parents. Then he hit nine or ten and the wheels fell off his educational train! Another child did pretty well until age eleven, then suddenly he couldn’t focus at all or remember things he’d learned last week. Others didn’t struggle until twelve or thirteen, but something seems to make middle school just plain hard, for nearly everyone. Is it possible to make the middle school years great? Join Hal & Melanie for doable ideas and real hope for getting through the challenging tween/preteen years and laying a foundation to make high school even better.
Cultivating Language Talents: From Preschool Through High School Andrew Pudewa Room 160‐161
Listening and reading well, speaking and writing clearly, and thinking and debating effectively are abilities that most parents hope to cultivate in their children. With that goal in mind, Andrew will explore various environments and activities which will accelerate the development of these language skills, beginning with the youngest students and continuing into the high school years.
Raising Courageous Kids to Confront a Sexualized Culture Sam Black Room 162
Today’s kids are being exposed to pornography early (think 8 to 11 years old)—and our pop culture tells them it’s a healthy outlet for sexuality. Families will learn how to create a safe online space and encourage ongoing conversations that empower kids to not only look away from sexualized media, but also to confront our sex‐obsessed culture. You can teach your kids to train their hearts and minds to be skillful, daring, and brave.
You CAN Homeschool Through High School Cheri Frame Room 163
Homeschooling High School Track
Homeschooling through high school might seem intimidating but be encouraged! These can be the most enjoyable and influential years you have with your teens. This workshop takes the guesswork out of what academics you should build into your 7th‐12th grade plan and helps you explore electives and activities that can customize your students’ high school years to meet their graduation goals. Teens are encouraged to attend.
Exploring the World from Home Colene Lewis Room 164
An understanding of the world – both the physical and cultural geography—will give your children a basis for all future studies in history and science. Come and discover how to teach geography and world awareness across your homeschool day and curricula.
Reading and Spelling: When One Doesn’t Lead to the Other Gretchen Roe Room 165
Regardless of how your child reads, spelling proficiency can be a quandary. Does your child ace Friday’s test, and then spell the same words wrong the following week? What if they have no spelling skills at all? Come learn about the neurology of the brain as it relates to both reading and spelling, and how to apply proven techniques to successfully create spelling confidence.
Live Passionately for God’s Glory Bob Sjogren Room 166‐167
Christian Teen Program: Ages 12‐18 – Teen Program badge required for admission
Have you been duped? Most Christians say, “I live for God” but act as though God lives for them. Sadly, many teens have absorbed this false message about God. It will hinder their faith as they become adults, and it even causes some to ditch God altogether. While your education is very important, your highest priority needs to be building a strong foundation on biblical truth. Learn how to recognize and conquer self‐centered Christianity, become a passionate follower of your worthy Savior, and strengthen your faith for a lifetime!
In the Trenches: Multi‐Age, Multi‐Grades without Mom Losing Her Mind BiblioPlan Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 1 (Exhibit Hall)
Are you longing to find ways to bring all your children together at the table? Spend time with Mindy Brouse as she shares helps for teaching history and more across multi‐age levels using a classical and Charlotte Mason approach.
Don’t Learn a Foreign Language—Actually Talk in One TalkBox.Mom Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 2 (Exhibit Hall)
Shift from learning grammar and vocabulary to easily using a new language in your day‐to‐day life. With this one workshop, you’ll know exactly how to start talking in a foreign language in your homeschool the same day you start.
Meeting Your Children’s Needs Through Individualization ACE – Accelerated Christian Education Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 3 (Exhibit Hall)
Who are we to say that all children should learn the same way? God wants each individual to use the strengths and talents He has given them to achieve their special calling in life. Find out how different minds work differently.
Music Education in Your Homeschool Arizona Girlchoir Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 4 (Exhibit Hall)
Music education can help achieve your homeschooling goals. Learn how formal study of music stimulates brain development, broadens academic success across all subjects, boosts standardized test scores, enhances critical thinking skills, increases scholarship competitiveness, and equips students for higher learning. Enhance your homeschool with music!
12:15 ‐ 1:15 PM
Lunchtime Sponsor Workshops ‐ Bring your lunch and learn from some of our sponsors Also, choose from one of four exhibitor workshops from 12:15‐1:15 PM.
The Four Language Arts IEW – Andrew Pudewa Room 162
When asked, “What are the language arts?” people may respond by listing numerous subjects: spelling, phonics, grammar, penmanship, copying, dictation, narration, and composition. But actually it’s much simpler! For those adhering to the classical model, those ascribing to a Charlotte Mason approach, or those who just want a common‐sense curriculum, there are really only four core language arts: listening, speaking, reading, and writing, and attending well to the first two makes teaching the latter two so much easier. Come prepared to have your educational paradigm adjusted, your load lightened, and your commitment to excellence renewed as you focus on the most important things in the limited time you have.
Your Child Can Love History with Notgrass Notgrass – Donna Ellenburg Room 163
Children of all ages and abilities can understand and enjoy history. Notgrass History combines engaging lessons, primary source documents, full‐color photographs and illustrations, classic literature, and hands‐on activities to help parents teach with confidence.
You’re In! Leveraging Community College Credits for University Admission Maricopa County Community Colleges District Room 164
During this informational workshop, admissions representatives from the Maricopa Community Colleges will discuss the academic, financial, and personal benefits of completing college coursework while in high school and prior to enrolling in a university.
Carpe Aeternitatem: Seize Eternity Grand Canyon University Room 165
This generation has heard the siren song that there is no such thing as absolute truth. Indeed, tolerance is the ultimate virtue. Our Christian families need to engage the culture and not shy away from the world of ideas. So, how do we engage the culture and mentor this generation? By caring adults who model the twin pistons of preaching the truth and living the truth so that students will seek to “Carpe Aeternitatem” (seize eternity).
Finding Your Fit: Does Online Schooling Work? HSLDA Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 1 (Exhibit Hall)
Considering an online course for your student? Not every online course provider offers the same resources or experience to students. HSLDA Online Academy will discuss the pros and cons on an online classroom to help you find the perfect fit.
Raising Girls to Be Ladies The Etiquette Factory Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 2 (Exhibit Hall)
Come, bring your daughters and listen to national motivational speaker and certified Etiquette Coach, Monica Irvine, teach what being a lady is all about in a society that is teaching girls that this is a thing of the past. You will walk away inspired and excited to continue to learn and model the attributes of a true lady. This is not just for moms ... dads, please come, too.
Orderly Learning Is Good for the Mind Memoria Press Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 3 (Exhibit Hall)
Do you sometimes struggle with how to direct your children’s learning? Should they only learn what they wish? Have you wondered how to structure their learning in the most beneficial way for them? This informative talk encourages parents in their endeavor to create an orderly learning environment as they guide their children’s learning and explains how orderly learning is essential to forming a well‐trained mind.
Impact America: How Competitive Homeschool Speech & Debate Can Change Our Nation Arizona Speech and Debate Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 4 (Exhibit Hall)
Throughout history, those with the ability to communicate most effectively are those who have steered the lives of others. Come learn how competitive Christian homeschool speech and debate can give your students the ability to change our culture, society, nation, and ultimately our world.
1:30 ‐ 2:30 PM
Homeschool 2.0: A Fresh Look at Education Woody Robertson Ballroom
Basic academic knowledge is important, but will it prepare a student for success in their future employment? Is your student becoming a collaborator, a communicator, a critical thinker, a creator? Are they developing media, information, technology, life and career skills? When college professors and CEO’s are surveyed, they disagree greatly on how prepared today's graduates are for life in the modern world. Come learn how to set up your student for success … beyond the curriculum.
Brain Training: Unlocking Your Child’s Potential Cindy West Room 151‐152 – Make & Take Classroom
While the concept of brain training is perfect for struggling learners, it’s also perfect for gifted or “normal” learners, too. Since brain training activities improve long and short‐term memory, processing speed, following directions, comprehension, and attention, any child (or adult) can benefit whether preparing for a big test or simply trying to improve cognitive function. Not only are the methods super easy to implement at home, they are very fun for your children! This workshop shares basic research behind brain training and activities that any parent can implement in the home. Come train your own brain as you experience these strategies! You will receive your own set of materials to use with your child.
Educational Life Hacks for Students with Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, and Dyspraxia Beth Mora Room 153‐154
Special Learners Track
Does your student have one of these “Triple D” neurologically based learning challenges that affects reading, handwriting, spelling, composition, and sometimes math? You may have the diagnosis and understand what is happening in your child’s brain, but the question remains, how do I teach my child? Beth Mora will present educational life hacks that will help your student thrive in all subject areas.
Preparing Small Children to be Homeschooled Debby Sjogren Room 155‐156
For almost 20 years, Debby Sjogren has been teaching a seminar called “Parenting Small Children.” Based on the biblical virtues of honor and respect, this workshop will give you fun and practical application ideas for training the heart attitudes of your preschoolers so they will be ready and willing to receive your authority as their teacher when they become school‐aged.
Sanity’s in the Freezer Melanie Young Room 157‐159
Learn how to have real meals again! Don't worry if you have tried once‐a‐month cooking and didn't like the mess. Melanie didn't like it either! Find out how to feed your family well on less money and serve great dinners with minimal time in the kitchen. This workshop offers practical help for successful household management, which is critical for homeschool families.
Marketing, Messaging, and Engaging the Millennial Mom Dr. Jennifer Murff Room 160‐161
Geared for Homeschool Leaders, Open to All
Homeschooling is on the rise and leaders are left scratching their head as they seek to understand and engage the Millennial parent—specifically the homeschooling mom. Homeschool group leaders, join Dr. Jenn Murff for this session and gain a deeper understanding of the Millennial homeschooling mom as well as practical ways to engage, market, and message on behalf of your group or ministry.
Six Magic Phrases That Will Transform Your Homeschool Antoinette LaGrossa Room 162
Did you know that the way you phrase things can change your child's whole outlook on the day? Use Montessori’s powerful techniques to make the most of both verbal and nonverbal communication with your child. These overlooked strategies and tactics will set the stage for your child to become a principled, self‐directed learner who takes ownership of their actions and decisions, making the homeschool environment more enjoyable for the whole family.
College Admissions Panel for Homeschoolers Moderator: Joshua Sugata Room 163
Homeschooling High School Track
Learning about college admissions for your homeschool student can seem like climbing a steep mountain without a trail map. Come to this session to hear from the trail guides themselves—admissions representatives from Grand Canyon University, Embry‐Riddle Aeronautical University, Huntington University, Arizona Christian University, and more. They are ready to answer the most common questions that homeschool families have regarding preparing your student for college, test scores, transcripts, scholarships, and more! You will be grateful for their expertise and their earnest desire to help your student through this stage of the journey.
Homeschooling with GRIT and GRACE Heather Haupt Room 164
The rewards of homeschooling are many, but so are the challenges. Sometimes we are plagued by doubt, but often we are just plain tuckered out. What is the key to starting and finishing strong? Why does it matter? WHAT truly matters? Perfection is not possible, but faithfulness and tenacity are a must. Renew your vision, refresh your spirit, and re‐energize for this life‐changing mission of home education.
You CAN be a Great Math Teacher Kathleen Cotter Lawler Room 165
Maybe you struggled with math, so how do you choose a curriculum to avoid the same fate for your child? Maybe you are really good in math but are unsure how to teach it. Should you include manipulatives? What DOES it take to be the best teacher for your child? Find out the science and the art of teaching math. It is a science because much research has been done on how children learn, especially in math. It is an art because each child is different and lessons need to be tweaked. Come learn and be encouraged to become a great math teacher.
Communicate for a Change: Props to Change Dr. Teresa Moon Room 166‐167
Christian Teen Program: Ages 12‐18 – Teen Program badge required for admission
Throughout this session, students are invited to engage with each other in a creative and expressive way. Using everyday props to tell a story from their lives, they will practice visual storytelling to passionately and purposefully communicate a message. With instruction and modeling, students will begin to recognize key components of compelling storytelling – and why it matters.
How to Keep Your Children Learning in the Midst of Life Changes BJU Press / HomeWorks by Precept Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 1 (Exhibit Hall)
Tina Keto will share practical tips from her personal experiences growing up as a homeschooler to her journey as an Air Force wife now homeschooling her own children. This workshop will focus on practical tips for homeschooling through change without sacrificing your children’s education!
Parents have tough questions. “What apps are safe? Can I know if someone texts my teen a sexual picture or video? Help me protect the whole device!” If you’re looking for answers to today’s tech dilemmas, this session is for you.
It is amazing that two children growing up in the same home with the same parents can be so different. This workshop helps parents understand their children's differences and how better to interact with their children in the homeschool setting and at home.
Nerf Guns and Shaving Cream: Teaching Reading & Spelling to Kids Who Can’t Sit Still Logic of English Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 4 (Exhibit Hall)
Engage your active learners through movement, and let the fun begin! In this workshop, we will reveal the natural kinesthetic components to reading and spelling and teach parents how to tap into them to enhance learning for all students.
3:00 ‐ 4:00 PM
Fearless Homeschooling: How to Ignore the Critics and Do What’s Best for Your Child Heidi St. John Ballroom
I’m not strong enough. My kids are going to have gaps in their education. Everything depends on me. I’ve failed too many times. I can’t do this right. I’m screwing up my kids. Everyone else’s kids are doing better than mine. Have you heard the lies, too? Join Heidi as she talks about her own experience of homeschooling out of fear and into faith. You’ll want to bring a friend to this one!
Enrichment Activities for History and Literature Jamie Mehan Room 151‐152 – Make & Take Classroom
Most of our kids' best memories of their homeschool experience won't be reciting multiplication tables or writing the five‐paragraph essay. Their favorite memories are from the times when they got their hands dirty with glue and markers or flour and eggs. Kids learn best when all of their senses are involved! This workshop will encourage you with ideas for how to make memories with your kids while reinforcing what you're already teaching them in history and literature. Come on, parents! Let's get our hands messy being creative so we can inspire our kids! In this workshop you will create two different enrichment projects that you can take home as inspiration.
So Smart … But He Can’t Find His Shoes Beth Mora Room 153‐154
Special Learners Track
Why can my academically gifted student calculate geometric ratios but he can’t find his shoes? It can be baffling, can’t it? One moment you’re conversing with your gifted student about the latest research on genetics and the next moment he’s telling you that his Superman cape can sustain flight because it has super powers. Gifted children often experience asynchronous development (out of sync development). How do you meet the developmental and academic needs of a gifted learner? Not an easy answer but one that Beth Mora will address in detail from experience with her two academically gifted kids.
Getting Started Homeschooling Laura Gadbery Room 155‐156
You’ve decided to homeschool, but where do you start? There is a lot of information out there and it can be overwhelming at times. Homeschooling decisions don’t have to be confusing, especially when you take it one step at a time! In this workshop, you’ll get the information you need to follow the laws in our state as well as some practical help to get your family off to a solid start.
The Battle for Our Boys Hal & Melanie Young Room 157‐159
How do you teach a young man to keep his way pure when the red‐light district is riding around in his pocket—or his friend’s? How can you help a boy think about the future when all he wants to do is game all day? Media addiction and porn are derailing young men at an unbelievable rate. Learn how to teach your sons a healthy, biblical attitude toward sexuality. Prepare them to make it a matter of honor to practice self‐control, do what’s right, and have healthy relationships with girls. Get them in the fight because there are no bystanders in this high‐stakes battle and we don’t want our sons to lose.
Leadership Education: The Seven Keys of Great Teaching Andrew Pudewa Room 160‐161
Exploring the practical elements of the Thomas Jefferson education model, Andrew will explain the seven keys as well as the five learning environments as developed by DeMille and his colleagues. (There’s even an unofficial “eighth key.”) With humorous stories from his own family’s experience, Andrew will delight homeschooling moms looking for tips on how to escape the “conveyor belt” approach to doing “school” at home.
Finding the Joy in the Journey of Teaching Writing to Your Children Gretchen Roe Room 162
It can be particularly difficult if you think composition is a mystery and you HATE to teach writing. However, if you had practical tools to teach composition in a positive way, it would be less stressful. Join Gretchen Roe as she reflects with humor and insight on ways to teach a subject many parents dread.
High School Testing Simply Explained Lee Binz Room 163
Homeschooling High School Track
One of the biggest high school anxiety producers is testing—specifically the PSAT, SAT, and ACT. Otherwise victorious homeschool moms can be reduced to wobbly‐kneed bowls of jello when faced with their children taking these tests. This class will help you understand them and put them in their proper perspective in your high school journey. Learn to choose the right test for your child—you know, the one that makes them look like a genius! Lee teaches strategies that will help your child improve scores by 50, 100, even 200 points per section, without sinking a dime into professional coaching programs.
Transforming Your Homeschool into an Adventure Ashley Wiggers Room 164
We all want the adventure, but what does it really take to make this dream a reality? Come hear this homeschool grad share the methods that made her schooling experience memorable and successful. From living books and reading aloud to understanding developmental stages, Ashley will help transform the way you see your homeschool. Homeschooling can be the adventure of a lifetime. Come to this workshop and find out how.
The Importance of Counting & Place Value Kathleen Cotter Lawler Room 165
Should we have our children count everything? What happens when they run out of fingers? And how in the world do we use counting with four‐digit addition? Come to this workshop and learn effective and efficient ways to recognize quantities, understand place value, and master addition and subtraction.
Communicate for a Change: Round Table for Change Dr. Teresa Moon Room 166‐167
Christian Teen Program: Ages 12‐18 – Teen Program badge required for admission
Employers are not looking for people who can argue with each other, but teammates who can build consensus and solve real problems. Using a consensus‐building format we call Round Table, we help students experience both the fun and the challenge of building consensus. Round Table practices include active listening, collaboration, recognizing and understanding differences, and discovering ways to innovate individually while contributing to a team.
Free College at Your Fingertips College Prep Genius Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 1 (Exhibit Hall)
Are you ready to make $500 an hour for college? Learn methods of receiving substantial scholarships that go beyond tuition and may include room and board, graduate school, and money to study abroad! Unlock the keys little‐known money for college!
Disciplining with Love, So We Don't Break Our Children's Spirits The Etiquette Factory Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 2 (Exhibit Hall)
Join Monica Irvine as she shares essential principles that we must understand before discipline can be effective. Parents, if we’re not careful—even with the best of intentions—we can damage our children’s precious spirits. If you have been feeling lately that you are not correcting your children as effectively as you would like, come and listen. You will be so grateful that you attended.
Equipping Our Children to Discern and Follow Truth Foundation Worldview Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 3 (Exhibit Hall)
Our world claims truth changes from person to person. How can we equip our children to understand the error of this claim and seek truth? Come explore answers to these questions and engage in strategies for implementing truth‐education in your home!
Your Child Can Love History with Notgrass Notgrass History Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 4 (Exhibit Hall)
When you use narrative lessons, primary source documents, literature, and hands‐on activities, your child can enjoy learning about the past. Find out how Notgrass curriculum helps parents and children love history.
4:30 ‐ 5:30 PM
Help and Hope for the Overwhelmed Mom Heidi St. John Ballroom
Parenting. It’s exhausting and exhilarating, frustrating and fascinating. Like all things that are God‐breathed, it’s a Kingdom‐building exercise. It’s a masterful strategy, this idea of using all‐night feedings and miscarriage and labor and teenagers (see how teens and labor go hand in hand?) and even homeschooling to teach us to trust the heart of the Father. But that’s exactly what God wants you to learn to do. Join Heidi St. John for an hour of encouragement and inspiration that will lift you up and remind you of the WHY of homeschooling.
Creating a Movement‐Rich Home That Maximizes Learning Heather Haupt Room 151‐152 – Make & Take Classroom
Come explore the scientific research behind the mind/body connection and how movement can be the key switch to turn your child ON to learning. But more importantly, put together a game plan with personalized ways you can incorporate more movement into your homeschooling days that will maximize your child’s learning potential
Homeschooling Students with Profound Learning Issues Peggy Ployhar Room 153‐154
Special Learners Track
Over the past 20 years, many products have been created for the homeschooling market which help parents homeschool students with mild learning issues. But that is not the case for parents who have non‐verbal, visually impaired, severely delayed and/or physically handicapped students. Instead, these parents are usually left to try to piece together their own curriculum, if they even dare take the leap and try homeschooling their child. Peggy Ployhar, CEO of SPED Homeschool, will share how to approach homeschooling for children with profound issues as she gives practical, hands‐on ideas as well as ways to approach subject‐specific requirements.
What? You Work and Homeschool? Dr. Jennifer Murff Room 155‐156
Moms today are not just holding down the fort in the home while homeschooling, but many are also working to bring in extra income for the family. How does a mom balance life, work, family, and homeschooling? In this session, you will learn practical suggestions and encouragement on being a working homeschool mom.
Motivating Guys to Take Ownership of Their Education Woody Robertson Room 157‐159
“I can’t get my son to sit at his desk and study!” “All my son wants to do is climb trees and play with LEGOs!” If this sounds familiar, you’ll find that most boys have more in common than you think! In this session, Woody shares the fears his mom had about home education and will help shift the paradigm to one of raising men. Sharing from his own perspective, he will help turn task‐oriented drudgery into delight with practical tips and tricks! Do more than survive—help your son take personal ownership of his education and launch into life!
Build a Thriving Marriage in the Midst of Your Homeschool Journey Scott & Sherri McKown Room 160‐161
After 11 years of a successful homeschooling journey, Scott and Sherry found themselves on the doorstep of divorce. Even though it looked like they were doing all the right things, they learned the hard lesson that none of us are immune to relational challenges. Scott and Sherry will be sharing their personal testimony of how they overcame these challenges which almost destroyed their marriage. They will cover relational tools that helped them heal from betrayal, fear, and hopelessness. Whether your relationship is thriving or struggling, this workshop will be an inspiring time to revitalize the hope within your marriage.
Escapism: Avoiding the Snares of Social Media Chuck Black Room 162
In today’s technology culture, the enemy’s lure of our young people’s minds to escape into an artificial world is great. As the line between reality and simulation blurs, the stronghold of escapism becomes more and more powerful. Apathy and self‐indulgence are two destructive consequences that lead to broken relationships, broken homes, and broken hearts. Find some practical tools you can implement to help keep your children from getting caught in the snare of escapism.
Jump Start College with CLEP Cheri Frame Room 163
Homeschooling High School Track
Cut the cost of college tuition in half! This popular workshop will share how to accelerate the first two years of college by earning credit for subjects your student may already be studying in high school. The College Board’s College Level Examination Program (CLEP) is a nationally recognized credit‐by‐exam program that offers 33 exams, for less than $100 each, allowing students to test out of courses generally taken the first two years of college. Whether your student is gifted, motivated, or looking for purpose, this workshop will help them save time and money earning their college degree. Teens are encouraged to attend.
Ten Benefits of a Natural Approach to Teaching Ashley Wiggers Room 164
The natural approach to learning is founded on the desire to follow your child’s developmentally appropriate timetable. This approach is based on proven educational principles from Dr. Ruth Beechick, Charlotte Mason, Dr. Benjamin Bloom and others. Natural learning does not mean learning without goals or structure. It means learning is customized, multi‐sensory, and engaging. Come to this workshop to hear the top ten reasons why a natural approach will enable you and your family to flourish.
Overcoming Middle School Blues: Why Your Children Are Failing Math & How to Turn it Around Antoinette LaGrossa Room 165
Does your middle school child struggle with math? Are you both dreading math time? Multi‐sensory tips and Socratic questioning will help your struggling learner have a new outlook on math and overcome the middle school blues!
Communicate for a Change: Extraordinary Communication Dr. Teresa Moon Room 166‐167
Christian Teen Program: Ages 12‐18 – Teen Program badge required for admission
Only 5% of U.S. residents are ready and willing to command the public platform, so just being ready to communicate sets a teen apart as extraordinary! Skilled communicators shift their focus from themselves to their audience. This others‐focused approach increases the impact of the message being conveyed. Students will learn how to analyze the content of their speech and ways to address their audience, as well as understand how to define their purpose for a variety of communication situations.
Math Building Blocks Build Confidence SuperFlash Math Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 1 (Exhibit Hall)
Is there tension and anxiety when it comes to math in your homeschool? Learn strategies to help students of any age memorize the basic facts. Give them the foundational building blocks to confidently move through math with ease as speed and accuracy naturally improve.
Youth Opportunity ‐ Naval Sea Cadet Program U.S. Naval Sea Cadets (Veterans Pride Battalion) Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 2 (Exhibit Hall)
This workshop is an overview of the Navy Sea Cadet program, the benefits of joining and how to get involved.
Preparing Your College Application Patrick Henry College Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 3 (Exhibit Hall)
This workshop will briefly cover how students can "put their best foot forward" in the college application process.
Teaching Writing to Homeschoolers Teaching Writing to Homeschoolers Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 4 (Exhibit Hall)
Effective writing is the key to our children's success. This workshop will present The Baran Method: Writing for Success, a proven and simple solution for homeschool parents to quickly become confident writing teachers and their children to become successful writers.
9:00 – 10:00 AM The First Three Years: A Workshop for Homeschool Rookies Heidi St. John Ballroom
If homeschooling feels more like drudgery than delight, or if the thought of homeschooling makes your knees shake and your palms sweat, this is the workshop for you! Perhaps you've heard from "experts" that homeschooling is just another form of education—but homeschooling is nothing like the school system. Learning at home is an adventure, a journey, a new lifestyle. Join veteran homeschool mom of seven Heidi St. John as she talks about the three things to know as a new homeschooler that will get you on track for success and enjoyment with your children. Come and bring a friend for a dose of information and encouragement.
Sensory Containers for Tactile Learning Laura Gadbery Room 151‐152 – Make & Take Classroom
Come have fun in this hands‐on workshop as you discover sensory containers and how they can be used in homeschooling your little ones! Participants will receive ideas for creating these engaging, versatile, tactile learning tools and will see and experience how to implement them for an endless variety of learning activities. Play, explore, grow your child’s brain, repeat! You will assemble two different projects to take home.
Biblical Encouragement for the Parent of a Child with Special Needs Peggy Ployhar Room 153‐154
Special Learners Track
In this session, Peggy digs into the Bible to encourage parents as they walk out the biblical standard of love and compassion without losing their focus or their minds. As a parent and foster‐parent of special needs children, she has first‐hand knowledge of the rigorous demands put on parents who are raising, training, and homeschooling children with special needs. With personal stories, biblical truth, and lots of encouragement, this workshop will speak to the hearts of parents striving to raise their children as God has called them to do.
Developing the Essayist Andrew Pudewa Room 155‐156
What’s the difference between a report and an essay? How do we help a student move from simply reporting facts to the more sophisticated skill of using facts in order to support an opinion? With several different essay models and a gradual method of building the analytical writer, you can feel confident in training your student to be an excellent essay writer. Come and get the plan right now; you can even start the process at the elementary level!
Toddlers in Tow: Thriving in the Midst of Crazy Heather Haupt Room 157‐159
Homeschooling with a baby on your hip and a toddler hanging from your legs can be quite a challenge. Or maybe you are wrestling with guilt about not doing enough with the preschooler when you are busy with your older kids. Some days it may seem daunting. But really, having little ones around can be a huge blessing. We just need eyes to see the positives and a few tricks up our sleeves to help traverse the challenges. Renew your vision and arm yourself for this precious season, because YES, you can thrive in the midst of crazy.
Call to Arms: The Guts & Glory of Courageous Fatherhood Chuck Black Room 160‐161
A spiritual war is being waged for our families. Dad, if you don’t fight for your family, no one else will. A soldier in enemy territory is alert, focused, and purposeful about every move he makes, with weapons ready. You stand between the enemy and your family, for God has given you the authority and the responsibility to stop him from destroying your marriage and your children. This takes courage, but your calling is noble...it is God's call to arms. Chuck offers straight answers and practical help for dads who are looking to protect, train, equip, and launch soldiers for Jesus Christ.
What Gifted Kids Really Need Hal & Melanie Young Room 162
We may hope our kids will be really smart, but what do you do when they are? It can be intimidating to think about meeting the educational needs of a kid who’s blowing the curve, racing ahead, and seems to need more. How can you help him fit in socially? Should he graduate early? As parents of several precocious children, Hal & Melanie have a lot to say about challenging these kids academically, helping them to thrive socially, answering their spiritual questions, and knowing when to push them ahead and when to broaden their education instead. Learn how to meet the needs of your bright child and enjoy doing it!
Parents as the High School Guidance Counselor Kathryn Graunke Room 163
Homeschooling High School Track
Making the transition from primary teacher to guidance counselor is exciting and challenging. For parents of junior high and senior high students, this workshop focuses on high school topics and college prep specific to homeschooling in Arizona. We will cover graduation expectations, transcripts, record keeping, scholarships, athletics, testing, dual enrollment, and selecting a career path—all while keeping in mind that homeschooling usually looks different than public school situations. With over 20 years of homeschool experience and three high school graduates, Kathryn hopes to answer the most frequently asked questions about homeschooling through high school.
Artist Study: It’s Way More Valuable Than You Might Think Cindy West Room 164
Many of us say we want to include art and art history into our homeschooling schedule, but how many of us are really making time for this “extra” subject? Not only will you learn why art and artist study is important, but you’ll see how easy it is to make art a weekly priority in your house. Expect to go home with a mountain of ideas that will become a highlight of your homeschool week!
Math Myths, Math Anxiety, and Math Learning Challenges Kathleen Cotter Lawler Room 165
Is your child facing learning challenges? Does your child have math anxiety? And what myths are we talking about?? Children with learning challenges must truly understand in order to remember. The traditional approach of teaching mathematics does not work for them. In this workshop, you will learn some teaching strategies and techniques that will help children with learning challenges, reduce math anxiety, and debunk the myths that make your task harder than it needs to be.
College Madness: When the Crowd is Wrong Woody Robertson Room 166‐167
Christian Teen Program: Ages 12‐18 – Teen Program badge required for admission “Go to school, get good grades, get into a good college so you can get a good job and live The American Dream!” Well, the American Dream is broken and many students are broke when they graduate college. Come learn about crowd dynamics, group think, and how to make sure you’re on the right side of the incredible changes, opportunities and challenges happening in higher education today, regardless of what the crowd is doing.
How to Ace the SAT and Get Free College College Prep Genius Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 1 (Exhibit Hall)
Learn the secrets of SAT success that have helped thousands of students raise their test scores as much as 600 points! Discover shortcuts in test patterns and save time on all types of questions. Your students can beat this test!
Organizing Your Homeschool BJU Press / HomeWorks by Precept Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 2 (Exhibit Hall)
Our God is a God of order. Look at creation, the church, and the family and you see it. Being organized helps our days to run more smoothly and helps us stay on track to accomplish our daily, monthly, and yearly homeschool goals. Organization looks different for each family, but we all need a place to start. Learn some organizational tips and ideas for your school year, your school day, your books and material, and much more that you can modify and personalize to help you have a successful homeschool year.
Boundaries with Children Fortified Marriages Ministry Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 3 (Exhibit Hall)
Healthy boundaries are important to healthy relationships and strong families. This workshop helps parents understand boundaries and apply the concepts of boundaries in parenting and the family overall.
Proper Care and Feeding of the Artistic Child Film School 4 Teens Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 4 (Exhibit Hall)
Do you have a creative child? Do you worry about his or her future? Do you feel ill‐equipped? Filmmaker Damon Evans shares fascinating discoveries about creative kids and how the arts prepare students to be successful adults. Learn how to nurture those artistic gifts and help develop a Christ‐centered vision for expressing them.
10:30 – 11:30 AM
Compulsive Comparing Disorder Dr. Jennifer Murff Ballroom
"Compulsive Comparing Disorder" is a disease that has plagued our culture, leaving a generation full of envy and discontentment. With the rise of social media, people more than ever are armed with camera phones ready to manage their own brand as they seek to present a perfectly filtered life. This has led to comparing our weaknesses to other people's strengths, ultimately leaving us overwhelmed and discouraged. Rather than comparing ourselves to others, we are called to walk in freedom as we admire the beauty and gifts of others without questioning our own.
Hand Lettering Made Simple Nicole Ryberg Room 151‐152 – Make & Take Classroom
In this workshop, we’ll explore different styles of hand lettering and cover some tips that will make creating your own unique work of art accessible to all levels of experience. We’ll design, letter, and beautify a piece that you can bring home and hang. We’ll also talk about ways that you can incorporate hand lettering into your homeschool journey as a learning activity to do with your children, an encouragement to yourself, or a ministry to others. You can be confident in creating with your kids, even if you’ve never had formal training or much practice.
Panel Discussion and Meet‐Up for Parents of Children with Special Needs Moderator: Allison Gentala Room 153‐154
Special Learners Track This Session Sponsored by IEW and Notgrass History
This brand‐new workshop format begins with a panel of homeschooling parents of children with special learning needs. You’ll hear some of their experiences, things they’ve learned along the way, and their tips for successfully navigating these sometimes challenging, always interesting waters. The second half of the session will provide parents an opportunity to talk with other attendees in facilitated breakout groups. We hope that this informative and interactive session is just the encouragement you need in the special needs homeschool journey!
Managing Anger and Conflict in Your Home Beth Mora Room 155‐156
Conflict happens. Anger happens. Siblings fight. Feelings get hurt. Parents don’t see eye to eye. Things are said that shouldn’t be said, and things are done that shouldn’t be done. We each have different points of view. Add the personal character flaws of each family member to the mix, and that’s a recipe for calamity. Unchecked anger and unresolved conflict can undo the best of homeschool plans. Teaching your child how to manage anger and conflict far outweighs any school subject. Beth Mora, author, blogger, and homeschool mom, tackles real‐life tensions we all experience and offers practical solutions for messy moments.
The Secret to More Time and Energy for Moms Dr. Teresa Moon Room 157‐159
We have really important goals! We want our children to grow into their God‐given potential. We also want them to be prepared for family, community, faith, vocation, and life. It’s a BIG job. And we often feel like we are failing...somewhere. How can we moms do the very best—the most important—things for our children? And do them all well? Together we’ll discover reliable tools, tips, resources...hope.
Dads, Stay Passionately Engaged in the Homeschool Journey Seth Dunham Room 160‐161
Reconnect with your passion for homeschooling through powerful stories that illustrate why people are so passionate about—and learn how rediscovering your “Why” is imperative to your success. We will explore practical ways for dads to stay involved and engaged at a high level.
Homeschool Through Hard Times Hal & Melanie Young Room 162
Homeschooling is a challenge at any time. Hal and Melanie have seen God's grace in stage IV cancer, learning disabilities, a baby with a heart condition, job loss, relocations, and more! The good news is that God can enable you to teach and learn more through the hard times than you ever thought possible. Find out why it's so important to keep homeschooling in spite of the challenges.
High School Grades, Credits, and Transcripts Lee Binz Room 163
Homeschooling High School Track
In this class you'll learn how to figure out high school credits and calculate grades, find the perfect grading scale, and what it takes to make your transcript official. This class is helpful to parents new to homeschooling who need to figure out the whole "transcript thing." It's great for parents who need a refresher course on calculating grades and figuring out credits, or those needing a nudge to finish up their student’s transcript for the year. And this workshop is perfect for parents who have specific questions about creating a transcript for their unique children.
Keeping Children Engaged with Creative Bible Study Cindy West Room 164
Too many children and teens tell me they don’t like homeschool Bible study. They think it’s boring and irrelevant to their young lives. Even worse, some parents tell me they don’t make Bible study a priority because their children (or even they) are bored with it. Oh, my—do I have some awesome news to share! I’ve found ways to spice up Bible study so that none of us are ever bored and look forward to our time spent in the Lord’s Word each day. Let me send you home with ideas!
Follow the Child: How Montessori Improves and Builds Your Child’s Motivation Antoinette LaGrossa Room 165
"Following the Child"—an often‐misunderstood part of the Montessori Method—unlocks your child's talents. Developmentally appropriate work, sensory experience, practical work, and privileged concentration enable your child to become a self‐motivated, goal‐oriented, life‐long learner.
Study Like a Genius: Unlocking Your Brain Woody Robertson Room 166‐167
Christian Teen Program: Ages 12‐18 – Teen Program badge required for admission All learning is founded on one key—the ability to take in information and then remember it. Most people are never taught how to effectively learn. Each school year, students spend countless hours studying, only to have the information seemingly disappear when they need it most. In this interactive and practical session, you will learn how to use study tools such as speed reading and memory techniques which will radically change the way you learn.
Experience Excellence in Writing Institute for Excellence in Writing Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 1 (Exhibit Hall)
Come and discover award‐winning Excellence in Writing, a method of teaching composition that really works. Using this program, students of all ages will learn to write stories, reports, and essays with style. This workshop will give you an overview of the program and show you how you can get started.
Travel the World While Homeschooling: Smart Family Travel on a Budget TalkBox.Mom Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 2 (Exhibit Hall)
Whether it's for science, history, foreign language, or fun, if you have ever wanted to travel to homeschool, Adelaide will show you how to take your homeschool abroad and stay inside a budget that makes homeschooling on multiple continents possible.
Preparing Our Children to Encounter Competing Worldviews Foundation Worldview Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 3 (Exhibit Hall)
How can we equip our children to navigate the false messages that clamor for their attention? Come engage in educational strategies that will prepare your children to encounter false ideologies and live vibrant lives of faith in Jesus Christ.
Unplanned Choices Pregnancy Center of Phoenix Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 4 (Exhibit Hall)
Come discover how you can educate and inspire your family on life choices. You’ll hear some real‐life applications that will enable you to capture the attention of your teens and young adults as they grow to become strong, influential men and women in the community.
12:15 ‐ 1:15 PM Lunchtime Sponsor Workshops ‐ Bring your lunch and learn from some of our sponsors Also, choose from one of four exhibitor workshops from 12:15‐1:15 PM.
Embry‐Riddle Aeronautical University: A Premier National STEM Institution Embry‐Riddle Aeronautical University Room 162
Come learn about Arizona’s world‐class STEM University (much more than just “flight”!). An Embry‐Riddle Admissions Officer will present information about Embry‐Riddle’s renowned hands‐on education, small class sizes, undergraduate research, and its amazing career outcomes and return on investment.
How to Have a Small Liberal Arts College Experience at Big ASU ASU’s School of Civic and Economic Thought and Leadership Room 163
The School of Civic and Economic Thought and Leadership at ASU is a new program that focuses on small class discussions of classic texts of moral, political, and economic thought. We combine this curriculum with summer leadership seminars, global intensive experiences, internships, and a world‐class speaker series. The school aims to provide students with support to put their learning into practice and become a new class of leaders in politics, business, and civic life. Join Adam Seagrave, Associate Director, for a discussion on the school and hear from homeschool parents on how they use the school’s programming.
Experience Freedom in Health Care While Saving Money Samaritan Ministries Room 165
Does health care sharing really work in an ACA world? Get your questions answered.
But Why Are We Studying Latin? Memoria Press Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 1 (Exhibit Hall)
As classical education experiences a revival, Latin seems to be on everyone’s minds. Why? Because Latin is central to a full classical education. This workshop answers questions about the whys and wherefores of Latin in your homeschool. This session will equip you with answers and make your Latin classes a time of enjoyable learning together.
RightStart Math: Why It Works RightStart Mathematics by Activities for Learning, Inc. Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 2 (Exhibit Hall)
Have you heard the buzz about RightStart™ Math? Hear about our philosophy and what sets us apart from other curricula. We will teach children that a real mathematical problem is like a puzzle, that math is more than memorization, and that math is fun. Come and learn what’s special about our math program!
Practical Conversations in a Smartphone World Covenant Eyes Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 3 (Exhibit Hall)
Kids are exposed early to sexualized media and even pornography (think 8 to 11 years old). This session arms you with tools and conversation starters to empower your kids to confront our sex‐obsessed culture. Trained kids make smarter decisions online.
Teaching Writing to Homeschoolers Teaching Writing to Homeschoolers Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 4 (Exhibit Hall)
Effective writing is the key to our children's success. This workshop will present The Baran Method: Writing for Success, a proven and simple solution for homeschool parents to quickly become confident writing teachers and their children to become successful writers.
In this special extended session, Lori Denst will serve as a guide for a "quick trip to the future" through career exploration. First, teens will take several fun, short career assessments to learn about themselves and the ways they like to work. Then they’ll explore online resources to learn how their skills and interests match up with career areas, and uncover jobs that may be a great fit! Printed career tests and info packet are included in the session.
1:30 – 2:30 PM
Knights in Training: Raising Boys Into Men Heather Haupt Ballroom
Come discover how we can reach the heart of our boys and inspire them to embrace this training phase of their lives as they pursue living a life of purpose that, like the knights of old, courageously puts the needs of others before their own. The world needs more kind, courageous, and bold men who will lead their families well and make an impact in their world both now and for the rest of their lives. It starts with igniting the imagination, honoring their love for adventure, and casting a vision for the training process.
How to Write an IEP and Use It Effectively in Your Homeschool Peggy Ployhar Room 153‐154
Special Learners Track
An Individual Education Plan (IEP) is a tool used by public and private school special needs teachers to set progress goals for their students. Join Peggy Ployhar, CEO of SPED Homeschool, for a very “how‐to” oriented introduction on the basics of writing and implementing an IEP, homeschool style. Peggy will take you through the the hows and whys of an IEP, the legality of the using a homeschool IEP based on the American Disabilities Act and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, as well as many teaching strategies on how to reach IEP goals for specific diagnosis and learning struggles.
However Imperfectly: Lessons Learned from Three Decades of Teaching Andrew Pudewa Room 155‐156
In this talk, Andrew shares many humorous experiences and painful lessons he has learned over thirty years of teaching and homeschooling, including: It’s hard not to do to your kids what was done to you; Process over product; All kids are different; “Progressive” education doesn’t mean progress; What real “college and career readiness” is, and two secret keys to successful teaching. You will be challenged or reassured (or both!) but sure to leave with an expanded vision of your calling as a homeschooling educator.
Mentoring for Maturity Dr. Teresa Moon Room 157‐159
Imparting knowledge is simple. Study the material. Take the test. But does it produce the maturity you desire? Are you satisfied to educate your children to test well? Most of us want more than that. Well‐selected mentors are the key. Mentoring grows maturity from the schoolroom to the boardroom. You can find the mentors your child needs. If raising a mature Christian means more to you for than transcripts and test scores, let’s talk.
An Equipment Operator’s Guide to Keeping Your Family Out of the Shop (For Dads) Forrest Mora Room 160‐161
How do a skid steer loader, a backhoe, a front tine tiller, a small tractor, and a diesel pick‐up truck relate to being a husband, father, and servant leader of your family? Forrest Mora, a landscape contractor and equipment operator, speaks to men using language that men can relate to. He relates real‐life stories from his experiences over the last 30 years to sometimes laugh at himself and other times challenge everyone in the room. His nuts and bolts style of communicating will provide a welcome outlet for men to gather together and discover that they are not alone in their challenges of life.
The Power of Fiction: Influencing the Hearts of Our Youth Chuck Black Room 162
Fictional stories are a powerful way to capture the attention of the young and old alike. Jesus used short fictional stories to explain the kingdom of God as did Nathan the prophet to bring a king to his knees in repentance. Discover how your use of fiction can get your children excited about seeking truth and serving God in kingdom‐building work. Does fiction really have the power to change lives? Absolutely! Join Chuck Black in discovering how.
In today’s competitive market, academics is not enough. Employers are looking for candidates who can demonstrate workplace‐ready skills such as problem solving, creative thinking, and team building. Help your student graduate with experience and the essential entrepreneurial skills to stand out from the crowd. This workshop will share strategies to help students gain these skills through targeted projects and real‐world experiences in their middle and high school years. Teens are encouraged to attend.
Debt‐Free College Woody Robertson Room 164
Change is happening rapidly in higher education. Universities are doing their best to keep up with the demands of the student marketplace. Come learn how to be on the cutting edge and not left behind. Learn strategies and tools to ensure you receive a quality education, have a great college experience and walk away with a degree but without a mountain of debt. Parents and teens welcome.
Making Geography Memorable Ashley Wiggers Room 165
Geography helps students understand cause and effect and teaches critical thinking effortlessly. Don’t miss the opportunity to help your children see the big picture of learning with the essential pieces of cultural and geographic knowledge. Come hear Ashley (a homeschool graduate and author) share about the importance of geography and how to integrate it into your homeschool.
When Nobody Understands Hal & Melanie Young Room 166‐167
Christian Teen Program: Ages 12‐18 – Teen Program badge required for admission
You’ve probably had “the talk” and know all about how your body is changing. But has anyone clued you in to why your emotions are out of whack, why you have days of darkest doubt, fogs of uncertainty, and moments of swooping exhilaration? Are you worried that schoolwork which used to be a piece of cake has somehow become difficult? Do you find yourself in trouble more and fighting with your siblings – and never wanting it at all? Good news – it’s normal, and there’s hope for better days ahead.
Work at Home as A Medical Transcriptionist The Medical Transcriptionist Service Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 1 (Exhibit Hall)
Discover a step‐by‐step guide to what medical transcription is, learning simply, and how to build your own home business.
Sewing for Beginners Learn To Sew Kids Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 2 (Exhibit Hall)
Help your child express their creativity through the Learn To Sew Kids interaction hands‐on sewing curriculum. Many skills can be developed or reinforced through the process of sewing, including hand‐eye coordination, patience, reading, math, and more!
Do your kids hate to write? No matter their age, teaching writing using incremental steps and engaging activities makes all the difference. WriteShop chases away fears by making it fun for everyone! You’ll leave the session feeling motivated and confident that you CAN teach your kids to write.
Dad’s Panel: The Life‐ and Family‐Changing Impact of Competitive Speech and Debate Arizona Speech and Debate Exhibitor Workshop – Curtain 4 (Exhibit Hall)
One dad will interview three other homeschooling dads to give the details of how competitive Christian home school speech and debate has changed their families and their homeschooling. As time allows questions will also be fielded by the panel from the audience.
Seven Most Important Things We’ve Learned in 25 Years of Marriage Jay and Heidi St. John Ballroom
“Transparent. Honest. Funny. Real.” That’s what people say when they hear the St. Johns speaking about the ups and downs of their union. If you’ve never heard Jay and Heidi speak together, now’s your chance. Join them for an hour that will encourage and inspire you as they share wisdom from 19 years of homeschooling and 26 years of marriage. This workshop is rated “M” for marriage. Bring your spouse if you can!
Five Ways to Teach Problem Solving Without Being the Problem Solver Gretchen Roe Room 153‐154
Special Learners Track
You have a child who has some learning “glitches.” How do you help them be successful without doing their work FOR them? Join Gretchen Roe as she offers you practical guidance in teaching mathematics word problems, compositional writing, spelling, study skills, and even time management.
Living Free from Fear and Anxiety Dr. Jennifer Murff Room 155‐156
We live in a culture where fear is often the driver behind our decision making. Fear can be crippling and keep us from truly walking in the fullness of God. In this session, you will receive a few tools of encouragement that will help you step off the mountain of fear and into the promises of God.
Transitioning from School to Homeschool Laura Gadbery Room 157‐159
If you’re thinking about bringing your children home from a public or private school setting in order to teach them yourself, you aren’t alone! Parents choose homeschooling and bring their kids home for a variety of reasons, but are sometimes surprised there is a transition period. Join us while we discuss some real‐life aspects of this adjustment and the changes involved. You'll leave with some practical help to equip you and your kids as you make the leap from schooling away the day to schooling for life.
Family Feud: Homeschool Dad Style (Men’s Panel) Moderator: Joshua Sugata Room 160‐161
Come see a Dads Panel like you have never seen before in a game show format. Join host Joshua Sugata as he moderates this panel of homeschool dads from diverse backgrounds. Josh will be scoring each homeschool husband based on his timed answers to the panel questions. Come cheer them on as they battle it out and attempt to beat the clock. Audience members will be entertained, encouraged, and better equipped to lead and support their families when it comes to homeschooling.
We all recognize the value of read‐aloud time, but do you know ways to amplify the impact? Discover how to add simple, inexpensive, and low‐mess activities and dialogue which will magnify the learning and fun. Amplify what they learn, what they remember, and watch them take it into their free time and into the rest of their lives.
Super Scholarships for Humble Homeschoolers Lee Binz Room 163
High School Track You can afford college and earn BIG merit‐based scholarships you thought were reserved for the uber‐intelligent or Olympic‐level athletes. In this class you'll learn why merit scholarships provide the most money. Lee will teach you which college admission test is best, the SAT or ACT, and why, and show you how to make sure your child will stand out above the crowd, regardless of their gifts or challenges. You'll learn how to find a college that gives great scholarships, and the secrets to creating homeschool records that will reduce college costs.
How to Plan Unit Studies: A Step‐by‐Step Lesson Cindy West Room 164
Unit studies offer a flexibility in homeschooling that can’t be beat. Independence in learning, hands‐on activities, literature‐rich environments, and use with multiple ages are just some of the wonderful aspects of themed studies. Learn how to create your own unit studies and incorporate them effectively into your daily schedule during this very practical workshop. This class actually walks you through the process of planning small and large units for various subjects and ages.
Math Clubs: Fun for Kids and Easy for You! Kathryn Graunke Room 165
For parents of all math abilities, this seminar will give you practical strategies for directing a math club. Focusing on grades 3‐8, we will cover easy‐to‐use curriculum, games, and teaching techniques that will help children develop a love for math. Both recreational and competitive math clubs encourage problem solving skills, increase testing ability, and make math meaningful. With over ten years of math club experience, Kathryn has enjoyed seeing students build friendships as they learned and played together. She would love to help you enrich your co‐op, homeschool or support group through math.
Game Tournament! A College Student’s Perspective on Homeschooling Leah Busler Room 166‐167
Christian Teen Program: Ages 12‐18 – Teen Program badge required for admission In this energetic closing session of this year’s Teen Program, homeschool graduate Leah Busler will share how homeschooling has impacted her life and prepared her for college. We will wrap up the weekend with group games that everyone will enjoy! Teens, you won’t want to miss it!
Homeschooling Held Hostage Heidi St. John Ballroom
In the past fifteen years, we’ve seen a lot of changes in the homeschool community. There is much more pressure being put on homeschoolers to excel academically. We’ve gone from a few brave parents who, without access to mainstream “curriculum,” managed to give their children an excellent education—but we’ve forgotten what made it excellent. It was excellent because these parents had a vision for homeschooling—they weren’t trying to re‐create school at home. They were simply being obedient to the One who had called them to be different. They knew that if He had called them, He would equip them. And they were right. If you’re struggling to find joy in your calling as a homeschooling parent, if you’re looking for more LIFE in your homeschool, this is the session you won’t want to miss. Join Heidi as she talks about her journey away from curriculum‐driven, workbook‐based homeschooling and into delight‐directed learning. What she learned will bless and inspire you. Bring a notebook.
